Refugio 101

Refugio 101 is a veteran radio program founded in 2012 at Jaume I University (UJI) in Spain. Originally inspired by the fallout shelter of the same name, the show has served as a cultural hub for gaming discussions for over a decade. In 2023, I joined the project as part of a new generation of hosts, taking on the responsibility of producing, recording, and broadcasting our weekly episodes.

Our content focuses on bridging the gap between the industry and the public. We frequently host interviews with indie developers and academic professors, providing a platform for our local community to share insights on game design, industry trends, and the technical challenges of development.

Critical Game Analysis

A core pillar of the program is the exploration of video games as a complex artistic medium. We move beyond simple reviews to engage in deep ludological reflection, examining how mechanics, narrative and aesthetics intersect to create meaning.

To enhance this critical approach, I have developed several specialized segments. Two that I am particularly proud of include:

• War Never Changes: A reflection on how violence is portrayed in video games and the unique role of player agency. This section explores why gaming often feels like the most war-centric medium and how interactivity changes our ethical relationship with onscreen conflict.
• Design 101: A concise overview of various design patterns and techniques used to craft better games. It focuses on how developer’s core purpose shapes the player experience and how specific mechanics can be used to achieve that vision.